MOTAT, Auckland’s Museum of Transport and Technology, spans two sites in Western Springs, linked by a heritage tram. At 805 Great North Road, explore transport displays, historic machinery and hands-on science exhibits; across the way, Aviation Hall at Meola Road houses aircraft including a Short Solent flying boat. Interactive displays and spaces for younger children make this a good choice for families, but the transport collections and technology exhibits also give adults plenty to explore. Allow time for both sites, not just the main museum.
Two sites, connected by tram
MOTAT is spread across two locations in Western Springs. The main museum is at 805 Great North Road; Aviation Hall is on Meola Road. A heritage tram links the sites, and a return ride is included with admission. Plan your route around both locations so you have time for the aircraft as well as the exhibits at the main museum.
The museum began with a group of associations that came together in 1957 to preserve historic tram vehicles and railway locomotives. It opened in 1964. Its collections trace transport and technology in New Zealand through vehicles, machinery and interactive displays.
At the Great North Road site
The main site combines transport history with practical science and technology exhibits. The collections include fire engines, locomotives, trams, cars, telephones and cameras. In the Pump House, you can see locomotives among the museum’s transport displays. The building itself was once a pumping station: from 1877 to 1910, it moved water from Western Springs Lake to reservoirs in Ponsonby.
Interactive displays give children and adults ways to engage with the subjects beyond reading exhibit panels. The science and technology areas include hands-on activities, and younger children have an indoor play space. The range of exhibits makes the main site a useful stop for families, while the historic vehicles and machinery give transport enthusiasts plenty to look through.
Aviation Hall and planning your visit
The second site is an aircraft hangar at Meola Road, with former Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft among its collection. One notable aircraft is the Short Solent MK4, the only surviving example of its kind. The tram ride between the sites is part of the visit, so allow for the trip in both directions when planning your day.
MOTAT is at 805 Great North Road, Western Springs, Auckland. The Aviation Hall is at Meola Road. The museum is family-friendly and has a restaurant, restrooms and free parking, alongside paid parking options. Tickets in advance are recommended. For special events, arriving early can help with queues and parking; event activities can include live music, a silent disco, Santa’s workshop and food trucks.
FAQ
Where is MOTAT?
The main museum is at 805 Great North Road in Western Springs, Auckland. Aviation Hall is at Meola Road.
How do you get between MOTAT’s two sites?
A heritage tram connects the Great North Road museum and Aviation Hall. A return tram ride is included with admission.
What can you see at MOTAT?
The collections cover transport and technology, including locomotives, fire engines, cars, interactive science displays and aircraft at Aviation Hall.
Is MOTAT suitable for children?
Yes. The museum has hands-on exhibits and an indoor play area for younger children.
